This is what I expect out of a $25 bottle. Let this wine breathe for 30+ minutes before enjoying it. The nose begins beautifully and interestingly (tobacco?) and then develops into a good example of a bordeaux blend. Deep, ripe berries, juicy plum and a hint of chocolate balance this wine nicely with the tannins. Expect a long finish of ripe blackberry. What I like best about this wine is that it doesn't 'need' food to be paired with, but it also works very well with food. It worked great with Chicken Scallopine and fresh pasta with garlic and olive oil